| Abstract: | The distribution of observations giving the smallest errors for specific purposes is found in the general case by a numerical procedure. Examples consider the minimum error ellipse for the recovery of a distant asteroid, a main belt object and the position in the target plane for a close approach to the Earth. The observations should be performed only on a few critical nights and inefficient times avoided. The methods are of interest for the optimum strategies for surveys and the determination of initial orbits. |
